Children at Rainbow Orphanage who now have clean water access

Clean water for 65 children

When Bobby and Jack learned that children at Rainbow Orphanage were walking long distances to collect water from a nearby stream, they knew something needed to change. Through grassroots fundraising and community support, XOXO Cameroon raised $14,837 to drill a borehole well at the orphanage. The borehole has been drilled and pipes installed. The concrete water tower structure is nearing completion, with the core framework fully erected. Once finishing work wraps up, the structure will undergo a 45-day curing period before the solar-powered pump system is connected.

Watch the moment they hit water

$14,837

raised through grassroots fundraising. The borehole well has been drilled, pipes installed, and the concrete water tower is nearing completion. Solar-powered pump connection is next.

Construction Update

The water tower structure is now nearing completion, with the core concrete framework fully erected. Over the next week, the team will begin finishing work, including the base enclosures that will house the electrical system connecting to the solar-powered pump. Once construction is complete, the structure will undergo a critical curing period of approximately 45 days to ensure it reaches full strength and can safely support the water tanks.

Two workers building the water tower framework at Rainbow Orphanage Worker assembling the steel framework on top of the water tower Rebar framework being prepared for the water tower construction

We expect to receive photos of the finishing phase next week, with continued progress toward full system installation shortly after. This is a major milestone in delivering a fully sustainable, solar-powered water system for the children.

Built on three years of giving

It all started in 2022 when Bobby and Jack organized their first neighborhood collection drive, gathering clothing, supplies, and essential items for the children at Rainbow Orphanage. Over three years, those drives grew stronger. The community showed up again and again, generously donating goods and funds. This sustained commitment from neighbors and friends created the foundation for the well project and deepened XOXO Cameroon's relationship with Rainbow Orphanage and the children there.

Bobby & Jack with community supporters and children
Handwritten thank-you letter from Pascaline Angel at Rainbow Orphanage

A letter from Rainbow Orphanage

In December 2023, we received a handwritten letter from Pascaline Angel, age 11, at Rainbow Orphanage. She wrote to say thank you for the gifts and support the children had been receiving.

This is why we do what we do.

Kevin at Rainbow Orphanage with children and the orphanage sign

What's next

The well has been drilled and the water tower is nearing completion, with solar pump installation to follow. Next up: building an educational center for the children at Rainbow Orphanage, a dedicated space where they can learn, study, and access resources that support their growth.

Bobby and Jack are also applicants for the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes. If selected, the $10,000 award would cover most of the construction cost.

Help us get there